KARACHI, March 15: About 2.5 per cent children, aged between five and 11 years, are assessed to be suffering from depression compared to 15 to 20 per cent of adolescent population inflicted with the same condition.

Speakers at a seminar on Saturday at the Aga Khan University Hospital identified biological and physiological factors as well as environmental pressures contributory to the condition.

Dr Unaiza Niaz while specifically reminding that 200 per cent rise in the incidence of depression among adolescents during the last one decade and surge by 10 per cent to 15 per cent in suicidal instances across the globe, sought family-based preventive interventions.

She said depression and suicide were assuming alarming proportions in Pakistan due to weakening family bondage, frustration, deviation from basic religious principles and unchecked exposure of the youth to violence through the media.

She advised parents to spend time with them, be caring, listen well and be understanding, adding that a satisfied child unless not genetically vulnerable to depression can efficiently cope with all difficult conditions.

Dr Unaiza also recommended a balanced approach on part of parents while dealing with their children and suggested moderation in their expression of love as well as displeasure.—APP